Meghan Markle makes public appearance sans engagement ring. What does it mean?

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry

Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle recently made a public appearance without her engagement ring, sparking speculations of marital strife with husband Harry.

This comes at a time the royal couple has been making solo appearances suggesting a possible shift in the way they approach their private and public lives.

The Duchess marked International Day of the Girl by engaging with young girls at Greater Santa Barbara where she was dressed in white trousers and a Ralph Lauren t-shirt. However, her engagement ring was missing, although her wedding band was still on.

Media reports suggest that while this might simply be a style choice, some royal experts have read too deep into the move, hinting at a widening rift between the Duke and the Duchess.

Notably, this is not the first time Meghan Markle was spotted without her engagement ring. During the Invictus Games last year, the royal had forgone the engagement ring and explained that it was “being fixed”.

Some foreign media reports have suggested that the royal couple are living separate lives, with Markle looking at devoting more time to her Hollywood projects and Prince Harry willing to be more involved with charitable works. It is yet unknown if this separation is restricted to just their work life or if their marriage is in rough waters.